Abstract
The concept of middle-range theory, arising over three decades ago in sociology, is reviewed. The concept was proposed as an approach to theorizing, urging consolidation of high-order theories with low-order empirical studies. The critical elements in such hierarchies are theories of a middle-range of abstraction. However, most current conceptions of “middle-range theory” in archaeology are far more narrowly conceived. Derived primarily from Binford’s work, they continue the New Archaeology’s attempt to develop a materialist epistemology for archaeology. In this view, principles of site formation processes are nearly synonymous with “middle-range theory.” The dangers to theory building of this approach are outlined. Examples of middle-range theory that expand our capacity for explanation of cultural behavior are presented.
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Raab, L.M., Goodyear, A.C. (1998). Middle-Range Theory in Archaeology. In: Babits, L.E., Van Tilburg, H. (eds) Maritime Archaeology. The Springer Series in Underwater Archaeology. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4899-0084-5_25
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4899-0084-5_25
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